Newsletter Issue No.8 | Fall 2025 HKUST PPOL
Contents Head’s Message Achievements and Grant On Going Projects Scholarly Showcase Conferences and Events Student Hub News and Upcoming Events 2 3 11 13 33 41 45 1
Head’s Message Welcome to the 2025–26 academic year at the Division of Public Policy (PPOL), HKUST! Whether you are a returning member of our community or joining us for the first time, I extend my warmest greetings and enthusiasm for the opportunities that await us. As we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, I must share that by the time you read this newsletter, I will have stepped down as Head of PPOL after four remarkable years, making this message both a welcome and a farewell. Leading PPOL has been an extraordinary privilege. Our talented faculty, dedicated staff, and brilliant students have transformed the Division into a vibrant hub for interdisciplinary policy research and education. Over the past four years, we have amplified our research impact, enhanced our academic programs, and deepened our engagement with local and global communities. Notably, in May 2025, PPOL proudly hosted the AUA Asia Pacific Public Policy Network Conference for the third time in five years, reinforcing our leadership in regional policy discourse. The creativity, resilience, and commitment of our PPOL community have been a constant source of inspiration. I am delighted to highlight several faculty achievements this year: • Professor Alex He has been promoted to Full Professor and received the prestigious Humanities and Social Science Fellowship from the Research Grants Council. • Professor Pengyu Zhu has also been promoted to Full Professor. • Dr. Yatang Lin (50% Economics, 50% PPOL) has earned promotion to Associate Professor with substantiation. • Research Assistant Professor Nicole Ludovice secured a General Research Fund (GRF) award. • Professors Alex He and Kira Matus each received additional GRF awards, bringing our Division’s total to three this year—the highest of any Division within AIS. Our students have also excelled. Notably, MPP students Li Yueqing, Li Haixin, and Chen Shumin participated in the Project Competition on Designing Safety, Health, and Well-being at Work in the Digital Age, organized by the Hong Kong Occupational Safety & Health Council. Their proposal was shortlisted for the global finals at the ILO Youth Congress during the Osaka World Expo, where they proudly represented Hong Kong and won the competition. Summarizing my four years as Head of PPOL in a few sentences is a task beyond even the most skilled wordsmith. If my contributions do not speak for themselves, words alone cannot fill the void. Many factors influenced my decision to conclude this chapter, rooted in a deeply personal reflection. With grace and humility, I am ready to pass the leadership baton to those who will shape the next phase of PPOL’s journey. I am confident in PPOL’s bright future, grounded in our intellectual rigor, collegial culture, and shared commitment to addressing real-world challenges through policy-relevant work. I am profoundly grateful for the collaborations and friendships forged during my tenure, which I will carry forward. I encourage each of you to approach this academic year with curiosity and dedication. Your contributions are vital to PPOL’s mission. Thank you for allowing me to serve this remarkable community. I look forward to witnessing the Division’s continued success. Professor Naubahar SHARIF Head, Division of Public Policy 2
ACHIEVEMENTS GRANTS Achievements and Grants 3
The Division of Public Policy at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) is proud to announce that Professor Naubahar Sharif has been appointed to the membership of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU) Expert Group. This appointment reflects his expertise and contributions in the field of public policy, particularly in innovation and technology, and underscores his ability to provide valuable insights on strategic and long-term policy issues. Professor Sharif is a Professor of Public Policy at HKUST, with a Ph.D. from Cornell University (2005). His research interests span science, technology and innovation (STI) policy in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, automation in China, and the Belt and Road initiative, aligning closely with the focus areas of the CEPU Expert Group. He is a dedicated educator, having received multiple teaching awards at HKUST, including the Interdisciplinary Programs Office’s Teaching Excellence Award (2020) and the School of Humanities and Social Science Best Teacher Award (2009 and 2016). His research has made a notable impact, with his work being featured as a sole-authored “impact case study” for HKUST’s 2020 Research Assessment Exercise, and he frequently contributes opinion pieces to local newspapers and appears in local media. Prof. Naubahar SHARIF Reappointed to Membership of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU) Expert Group The CEPU Expert Group, established by the Government on 30 May 2023 with 56 members from diverse backgrounds including business, finance, professionals, think-tanks, and academia, aims to provide expert views and new ideas to the CEPU on various topics. It is organized into three streams: Economic Advancement, Social Development, and Research Strategy, with a one-year term ending on 29 May 2024. The CEPU, operational since 28 December 2022, focuses on in-depth studies of Mainland and global developments, forwardlooking research on strategic issues, coordination of the Chief Executive’s Policy Address, and support for policy formulation, among other key functions. Professor Sharif’s appointment to the CEPU Expert Group is a testament to his profound knowledge and experience in public policy, especially in innovation policy. The Division of Public Policy at HKUST celebrates this significant appointment and looks forward to his continued contributions to bridging academic research and public policy, both through his role in the Expert Group and his ongoing work in academia. Congratulations, Professor Sharif, on this welldeserved appointment! Prof. Naubahar SHARIF ACHIEVEMENTS 4 Achievements
Prof. Kira MATUS Dr. Nicolo LUDOVICE Prof. Alex Jingwei He Prof. Kira MATUS, Prof. Alex Jingwei He and Dr. Nicolo LUDOVICE Awarded the General Research Fund (GRF) The Division of Public Policy (PPOL) is delighted to announce that three of its distinguished faculty members have been awarded the General Research Fund (GRF) by the University Grants Committee (UGC) of Hong Kong. The UGC is a prestigious body that supports and promotes research excellence in higher education institutions across Hong Kong. Each year, the UGC receives a significant number of applications, making the competition intense and the selection process highly rigorous. Securing a GRF is a notable achievement that reflects the quality and impact of the research conducted by our faculty. Congratulations to Prof. Kira Matus, Prof. Alex Jingwei He, and Dr. Nicolo Ludovice on this remarkable accomplishment! This recognition not only highlights their individual excellence but also underscores that PPOL has become the best-performing division within the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS) this year. 5 Achievements
Prof. Alex Jingwei He Prof. Alex Jingwei He Awarded the Humanities and Social Sciences Prestigious Fellowship We are thrilled to announce that Prof. He, Professor of the Division of Public Policy and Acting Director of the Institute for Public Policy, has been awarded the Humanities and Social Sciences Prestigious Fellowship Scheme (HSSPFS) 2025-26 from Hong Kong’s Research Grants Council (RGC), recognizing his academic excellence, contributions to policy research, as well as social and economic applications. With this fellowship, Prof. He will receive HK$669,200 to support his research project “Understanding China’s Huge and Complex Health Policy Reform: A Governance Approach”. This project aims to contribute to scholarly knowledge on health policy through an integrative interdisciplinary approach. It examines China’s complex health policy reforms initiated in 2009, which impact 1.4 billion people. Traditional analyses often focus on health economics, leading to a narrow understanding that overlooks the vital roles of governance and political economy. By highlighting these aspects, this project provides a more comprehensive understanding of health policy reforms in a country of continental scale. The HSSPFS was first launched in 2012/13. It aims at granting extended time-off and supporting funds to outstanding investigators with a proven track record of research and publication under the disciplines of the Humanities and Social Sciences Panel to enable them to focus on research work and writing. Each year, the HSSPFS awards a maximum of 10 fellowships. This recognition adds to Prof. He’s growing accolades, including his recent appointment by the WHO’s Asia Pacific Observatory on Health Systems and Policies to lead a regional consortium focused on digital health innovation, and the IPPA Transition and Developing Economies Award 2025, among others. Congratulations, Prof. He, on this well-deserved recognition! Your contributions are invaluable to our division and the field of public policy. 6 Achievements
Prof. Alex Jingwei He The Division of Public Policy (PPOL) is proud to share that Professor Alex Jingwei He has been awarded the Transition and Developing Economies Award 2025 by the International Public Policy Association (IPPA). Professor He is the first Chinese scholar to receive this prestigious honour since the award’s establishment in 2021. He has been recognised for his significant scholarly contributions to health policy, policy design and innovation, population ageing, and social policy, with a particular emphasis on advancing public policy in developing country contexts. Prof. Alex Jingwei He Receives the IPPA Transition and Developing Economies Award 2025 The award will be officially presented at the 7th International Conference on Public Policy (ICPP) to be held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in July 2025. This recognition underscores PPOL’s continued commitment to excellence in public policy research and its global impact. 7 Achievements
Dr. Fangxin Yi The Division of Public Policy proudly announces that Dr. Fangxin Yi has received the 2025–26 Lincoln Institute China Program International Fellowship for her research titled “Fiscal Decentralization and the Strategic Embedding of Land-Centered Urbanization: Three Decades under the Tax-Sharing System.” Her project was recognized among the top initiatives addressing urban and fiscal policy challenges in the recently announced 2025–2026 International Research in China program. Dr. Fangxin Yi Awarded th 2025–26 Lincoln Institute China Program International Fellowship This prestigious fellowship supports outstanding scholars researching urban development, land policy, and fiscal governance in China. It fosters academic excellence and provides resources and networks to enhance understanding of China’s complex systems. The fellowship promotes interdisciplinary research on sustainable urbanization and fiscal decentralization, bridging academic knowledge and practical policymaking for better urban governance in China and beyond. Congratulations, Dr. Yi, on this remarkable accomplishment! 8 Achievements
Dr. Fangxin Yi We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Fangxin Yi led an international research team in a threeyear project that conducted a large-scale field experiment involving over 20 million residents in Chengdu, examining the impact of participatory budgeting on behavioral change. This work, which explored the effectiveness of participatory mechanisms at scale, was published in Nature Human Behaviour and received the 2025 Best Publication Award from the Behavioral Science & Policy Association (BSPA) globally. Dr. Fangxin Yi Leads Team to Win 2025 Best Publication Award from the Behavioral Science & Policy Association (BSPA) The 2025 Best Publication Award from the Behavioral Science & Policy Association (BSPA) recognizes an outstanding scholarly contribution that advances the rigorous application of behavioral and social science to policy and practice. BSPA is a globally recognized interdisciplinary organization dedicated to promoting evidence-based policymaking by bridging the gap between research and real-world impact. This prestigious award highlights the association’s commitment to fostering research that is not only methodologically sound but also highly relevant to pressing societal challenges. Congratulations, Dr. Yi, on this well-deserved recognition! Your contributions are invaluable to our division and the field of public policy. 9 Achievements
Prof. Naubahar SHARIF LEADING FACULTY Naubahar SHARIF PROJECT TITLE Bottom-Up Dragons: How China’s Borderland SOEs are Reshaping the Go Global Strategy in Southeast Asia FUNDING AGENCY the Li & Fung Supply Chain Institute AMOUNT AWARDED HK$150,000 PROJECT DESCRIPTION This research examines how China’s borderland state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are reshaping the “Go Global Strategy” through a bottom-up approach, focusing on three Yunnan province SOEs’ infrastructure and energy investments in Southeast Asia. The study investigates how these local SOEs have leveraged geographical proximity, cultural ties, and local government connections to successfully compete with central SOEs in neighboring markets. The research challenges conventional understanding that central government SOEs dominate overseas investments, demonstrating how China’s “Go Global Strategy” has evolved to incorporate diverse implementing agents, suggesting a more nuanced model of Chinese state capitalism where local actors play pivotal roles in expanding China’s economic influence abroad. GRANT 10 Achievements Grant
On Going Projects LEADING FACULTY FUNDING AGENCY PROJECT Prof. Naubahar Sharif Beat Drugs Fund Association, Narcotics Division, Security Bureau Learning from the Past and Acting for the Future of Hong Kong’s Ethnic Minorities: A Comprehensive Analysis of BDF Research Projects and Culturally Sensitive Anti-drug Studies Among South Asians in Hong Kong (2024 – Now) HKUST, HKUST (GZ), and Guangdong Science and Technology Department Mental Well-Being in the Greater Bay Area (GBA): An Interdisciplinary Approach to Awareness, Assessment, and Intervention (2024 – Now) Chief Executive’s Project List 2023- Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust Enhancing the Mental Health of Hong Kong’s NonChinese Youth Aged 15-24 (2024 - Now) Mental Health Initiatives Funding Scheme, Advisory Committee on Mental Health Strengthening Family Relationships for Hong Kong’s Ethnic Minority Communities in the Aftermath of the Covid-19 Pandemic (2023 - Now) Mental Health Initiatives Funding Scheme, Advisory Committee on Mental Health Supporting Ethnic Minority Elderly with Mental Health Needs (2023 - Now) Center for Aging Science, HKUST Towards a More Inclusive Hong Kong: Covid-19, Mental Well-being, and Mitigation Strategies for a Multicultural Elderly Community (2022 - Now) Prof. Kira Matus RGC - General Research Fund Can We Regulate Our way to a Circular Economy? A Study of the Relationship between Extended Producer Responsibility Regulation and Sustainable Innovation in the Textile Industry (2025 – Now) RGC - General Research Fund Towards 1.5C Lifestyles: What motivates sustainable consumption choices in Hong Kong? (2022 – Now) Prof. Raul Lejano HKUST Faculty Start-up Funding Determinants of Pro-Environmental Behavior (2024 – Now) 11 On Going Projects
LEADING FACULTY FUNDING AGENCY PROJECT Prof. Pengyu Zhu RGC – Research Fellow Scheme Regional Science and Complex Systems: A Five-year Research Plan on Transportation, Land Use, Labor, and Innovation Systems (2024-Now) Chief Executive's Policy Unit – Public Policy Research Funding Scheme Bus Electrification in Hong Kong: Energy Consumption Prediction and Charging Facility Planning (2024-Now) Chief Executive's Policy Unit – Public Policy Research Funding Scheme Enhancing the implementation of “One University, Two Campuses" and mutual recognition of academic qualifications: A mixed-methods study (2025-Now) Prof. Alex Jingwei He RGC – General Research Fund Local Government Innovation under Political Recentralization in Contemporary China: A Twostage Sequential Study (2024 – Now) Tsinghua University Delayed retirement and mass feedback in China (2025-Now) Asia Pacific Observatory on Health Systems and Policy, World Health Organization Use of digital health technologies and data to enhance health system outcomes (2025-Now) Prof. Masaru Yarime Social Science Research Council (SSRC), United States Data Governance for Innovation for Sustainable Smart Cities: A Comparative Analysis of Japan, the United States, and China (2024 – Now) UKinSPIRE Award, University of Kentucky, United States How the Governance of Standards and Geopolitics Shape Competition in the Global Economy (2024 – Now) Global Engagement Funds, University College London Delayed retirement and mass feedback in China (2025-Now) HKUST Li & Fung Supply Chain Institute Public Perspectives on Personal Data Use for Personalized Covid-19 Advice (2022 - Now) Prof. Julien de Troullioud de Lanversin Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies, HKUST Using Machine Learning with Gamma Spectrometry to Verify Subcritical Tests 12 On Going Projects
Scholarly Showcase SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND SUSTAINABILITY SOCIAL AND URBAN POLICY ECONOMIC POLICY 13 Scholarly Showcase
FOCUS OF STUDY The article introduces a “processual approach” to analyze skill changes due to digital automation, specifically in the context of the platform economy within the service sector. It examines how automation impacts the skills of workers in conventional taxi services compared to ride-hailing platforms. Through empirical case studies, the authors argue that rather than replacing skills, automation repositions and refocuses them, as workers adapt to algorithmic judgments and manage unpredictable events. The study highlights the importance of understanding the nuanced interplay between technology and human agency in skill development, particularly in service work. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers should establish skill-related standards through collaborative analysis with platforms and workers, ensuring these standards are incorporated into algorithmic rules. Additionally, promote transparency in algorithmic operations and conduct regular audits to empower frontline workers and enhance their skill development opportunities. FOCUS OF STUDY The article examines the implications of generative AI models in qualitative research, focusing on their potential risks and the need for regulatory solutions. Through qualitative analysis, including interviews with researchers and a review of existing AI policies in various countries, the authors identify key risks affecting reviewers, researchers, and research respondents. These risks include data integrity issues, biases, lack of transparency, and privacy concerns. The study highlights the necessity for a regulatory framework that can manage these risks effectively while promoting the responsible use of generative AI tools in research. The findings suggest that current policies may not adequately address the unique challenges posed by generative AI, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To mitigate risks associated with generative AI in qualitative research, establish clear regulatory frameworks mandating transparency, bias audits, and accountability measures. Encourage collaboration between researchers and regulatory bodies to ensure ethical standards and effective oversight in the use of AI technologies. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY Jack Linzhou Xing, Naubahar Sharif. “A processual approach to skill changes in digital automation: The case of the platform economy in the service sector.” Research Policy (54), 2025. Sivarudran Pillai, Vishnu, and Kira Matus. “Regulatory solutions to alleviate the risks of generative AI models in qualitative research.” Journal of Asian Public Policy (2024): 1-24. 14 Scholarly Showcase
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY FOCUS OF STUDY This book introduces advanced students and researchers to interpretive methods for analyzing public policies. It highlights several real-world policy situations where a lack of interpretive focus limits analysis and hinders effective policy responses. The authors advocate for an integrative perspective that allows dialogue between interpretive and positivist approaches. This integrative approach enhances the understanding of data while uncovering hidden ideological and normative foundations. By emphasizing the importance of context and meaning, the study aims to enrich policy analysis and improve decision-making processes. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The authors recommend adopting an interpretive framework in policy analysis to foster deeper policy insights and foster engagement with policy actors. This approach can reveal diverse perspectives and underlying ideologies, leading to more effective and contextually relevant policy solutions. FOCUS OF STUDY This study examines the integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in higher education policy within an Asian context, particularly focusing on the challenges and opportunities it presents. It reviews ten articles that analyze the effects of GenAI on teaching, learning, and research, emphasizing the diverse educational landscape in Asia. The authors highlight the dual nature of GenAI, showcasing its potential to enhance personalized learning and streamline administrative processes while also raising concerns about ethical issues, equity, and the risk of diminishing critical thinking skills. By synthesizing findings from various perspectives, the paper proposes actionable strategies for policymakers to effectively navigate the integration of GenAI in higher education, ensuring that its benefits are maximized while mitigating associated risks. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers should develop comprehensive guidelines for the responsible integration of GenAI in higher education, emphasizing equity, ethical practices, and capacity building. Collaborative frameworks should be established to ensure inclusive access to GenAI resources and promote continuous adaptation to evolving educational needs. Lejano, Raul P., and Wing Shan Kan. Interpretive Approaches to Policy Analysis: Hermeneutics for Our Times. Springer Nature, 2025. Capano, Giliberto, Alex Jingwei He, and Sean McMinn. “Riding the tide of generative artificial intelligence in higher education policy: an Asian perspective.” Journal of Asian Public Policy (2025): 1-15. 15 Scholarly Showcase
FOCUS OF STUDY This study investigates students’ behavioral and perceptual experiences with ChatGPT at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). By surveying 680 students, it evaluates the frequency of ChatGPT usage, intentions for future use, and perceptions regarding its impact on learning outcomes and career development. The research also examines variations based on demographic factors such as gender, age, discipline, and campus location. The findings reveal significant usage patterns and positive perceptions among students, highlighting the role of AI literacy in enhancing engagement with generative AI tools. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Universities should integrate AI literacy into their curricula, ensuring all students benefit from AI tools like ChatGPT. Targeted training programs should address demographic disparities to promote equitable access and effective use of these technologies. FOCUS OF STUDY The paper investigates the challenges and inaccuracies in estimating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cloud computing, focusing on the discrepancies between location-based and use-based accounting methods. It highlights four main sources of estimation risks, particularly the geographical separation between cloud operations and usage. The study emphasizes the need for accurate emissions accounting frameworks to ensure responsible climate action. By proposing a use-based emissions attribution model and identifying policy interventions such as stricter reporting rules, eco-labeling, and carbon border adjustments, the authors aim to enhance the accuracy of GHG emissions reporting for cloud services. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To improve GHG emissions accounting in cloud computing, implement stricter reporting standards, promote eco-labeling for transparency, and establish carbon border adjustments to address discrepancies between carbon exporters and importers. These measures will enhance the accuracy and accountability of emissions reporting. Jingwei He, Alex, Zhuoni Zhang, Pritish Anand & Sean McMinn. “Embracing generative artificial intelligence tools in higher education: A survey study at the Hong Kong university of science and technology.” Journal of Asian Public Policy (2025): 1-25. Soares, Ian Varela, Masaru Yarime, and Magdalena M. Klemun. “Estimating GHG emissions from cloud computing: sources of inaccuracy, opportunities and challenges in location-based and use-based approaches.” Climate Policy (2025): 1-19. 16 Scholarly Showcase
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY FOCUS OF STUDY This study examines the factors influencing the adoption of proactive eco-innovations (EIs) among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in resource-intensive sectors across the European Union (EU). By utilizing a national innovation system (NIS) perspective, the research analyzes determinants at three levels: micro (environmental awareness), meso (external collaboration and intra-industry agglomeration), and macro (economic complexity, trade openness, and government R&D). Data from a survey of 6,188 SMEs revealed that while public awareness and economic complexity positively influenced proactive EI adoption, external collaboration and sectoral agglomeration had a negative impact. The findings highlight the importance of understanding external knowledge absorption processes in promoting eco-innovation. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers should enhance public awareness and support for R&D while reconsidering the role of external collaborations in eco-innovation strategies. Tailored policies that foster a conducive environment for proactive EIs can help SMEs effectively transition towards sustainable practices. FOCUS OF STUDY In this conceptual piece, the authors lay the groundwork for a relational “turn” in policy studies, which involves analyzing how policy emerges from the “working and reworking of relationships among policy actors”. As discussed, the roots of the relational approach are found in earlier work on implementation, street-level bureaucrats, practice, and network governance. This semi-review discusses some strong theoretical assumptions found in relational sociology and other fields. It then ends with some baseline propositions that most (or all) policy scholars can begin with as they consider how relational approaches can further their own research. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The authors recommend more widespread use of a relational perspective on policy phenomena, as it can help explain what otherwise appear as anomalies in policy design and implementation. Practitioners and researchers alike can benefit from understanding the role of relationality in the life of policy. Lejano, R.P., and Kan, W.S. “Conjectures on a relational turn in policy studies.” Policy Sciences 58, 385–401 (2025). Yoshino, Miyana, Benjamin Sadlek, Masaru Yarime, Adnan Ali. “Knowledge absorption pathways for eco-innovation: an empirical analysis of small and mediumsized enterprises in the European Union.” European Journal of Innovation Management 28.2 (2025): 426-453. 17 Scholarly Showcase
FOCUS OF STUDY This study examines the integration of national climate policy in Ethiopia, particularly focusing on the Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) policy introduced in 2011. It analyzes the progress and barriers to Climate Policy Integration (CPI), emphasizing the need for coordinated actions across various sectors. The research highlights the challenges posed by siloed institutional cultures and fluctuating governance structures, which hinder effective policy implementation. Through qualitative methods, including document analysis and interviews with key informants, the study reveals that while there has been some advancement in integrating climate goals into development policies, significant obstacles remain. These include inconsistent policy framing, competing economic priorities, and inadequate climate finance. The findings stress the importance of a stable governance framework and enhanced cooperation among policy actors to foster a holistic approach to climate policy. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Ethiopia should restore the environmental ministry’s status to facilitate better climate policy coordination and ensure consistent funding and scientific expertise. Additionally, an organized information-sharing framework is essential to enhance collaboration and reduce inconsistencies across climate policies. FOCUS OF STUDY The study focuses on developing a low-cost, LiDAR-based flood risk communication viewer that enhances public understanding of flood risks through dynamic, three-dimensional visualizations. It addresses the limitations of traditional 2D flood maps, which often fail to effectively convey the severity and dynamics of flooding. By utilizing high-resolution point clouds and advanced algorithms, the proposed method enables hyper-local, geometrically accurate representations of flood scenarios, including variations in water color, texture, and motion. The research highlights the need for improved risk communication strategies, particularly in urban areas prone to flooding, and demonstrates the effectiveness of 3D visualizations in engaging community members and facilitating better evacuation and preparedness decisions. POLICY RECOMMENDATION The authors recommend adopting 3D visualization tools for flood risk communication to replace traditional 2D maps. This approach should be integrated into public awareness campaigns to enhance understanding and compliance with evacuation orders, especially in vulnerable communities. Zhu, Jing, Debra F. Laefer, Raul P. Lejano, Peter Gmelch, Evan O’Keeffe, Kshitij Chandna. “From 2D to 3D: Flood risk communication in a flood-prone neighborhood via dynamic, isometric street views.” Progress in Disaster Science (2025): 100419. Laefer, Debra F., Evan O’Keeffe, Kshitij Chandna, Kim Hertz, Jing Zhu, Raul Lejano, Anh Vu Vo, Michela Bertolotto, Ulrich Ofterdinger. “Low-Cost, LiDAR-Based, Dynamic, Flood Risk Communication Viewer.” Remote Sensing 17.4 (2025): 592. 18 Scholarly Showcase
Yang, Liang, Yan Xu, and Pan Hui. “Framing metaverse identity: A multidimensional framework for governing digital selves.” Telecommunications Policy 49.3 (2025): 102906. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY FOCUS OF STUDY The metaverse, as an emerging digital ecosystem, is redefining the boundaries between physical and virtual realities, offering both challenges and opportunities for societal and personal growth. This study contributes to metaverse governance discourse by proposing a multidimensional framework for understanding and regulating Metaverse Identity, defined as a user’s digital self encompassing personal attributes, data footprints, social roles, and economic elements. The framework introduces two guiding principles: Equivalence and Alignment, emphasizing coherence between digital and realworld identities to enhance accountability and legal clarity, and Fusion and Expansiveness, advocating for creative, inclusive identity expression beyond traditional constraints. These principles address key governance challenges, including identity interoperability, privacy management complexities, risks from deepfakes, and identity fragmentation. By bridging theoretical gaps, this study offers a foundation for future research and strategies to guide the ethical and inclusive evolution of the metaverse. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers should develop adaptive governance frameworks that balance regulatory oversight with flexibility in identity expression. These frameworks must address challenges such as privacy, interoperability, and ethical risks while safeguarding mental health, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging innovation to ensure a fair and forward-thinking metaverse ecosystem. FOCUS OF STUDY This paper addresses the critical issue of value alignment in AI systems, highlighting two main challenges: ensuring that AI understands human values and determining which values should be prioritized. It critiques existing approaches like reinforcement learning with human feedback (RLHF) and Constitutional AI for their lack of transparency and inclusivity, which can result in biased outcomes reflecting only dominant perspectives. The study proposes a Dynamic Value Alignment approach that enhances users’ moral and epistemic agency, allowing them to exert greater control over the values that guide AI behavior. By modeling moral reasoning as a dynamic process, this framework aims to democratize AI ethics, ensuring that a diverse array of human values are represented in AI systems. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers should promote the adoption of the Dynamic Value Alignment approach in AI development, ensuring that value selection processes are transparent, inclusive, and participatory. This will help mitigate biases and enhance accountability in AI systems, reflecting a broader spectrum of human values. Huang, Linus Ta-Lun, Gleb Papyshev, and James K. Wong. “Democratizing value alignment: From authoritarian to democratic AI ethics.” AI and Ethics 5.1 (2025): 11-18. 19 Scholarly Showcase
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS OF STUDY The article analyzes variations in sustainable innovation strategies among ten small OECD countries across five sectors: agriculture, water, health, energy, and manufacturing. By synthesizing a dataset of 1,722 policy interventions from 2008 to 2020, the authors assess how different governments use policy mixes to support innovation aimed at sustainable development. The study highlights distinct strategies, such as Nordic countries’ emphasis on coordinated market economies and targeted R&D funding, contrasting with Israel and New Zealand’s focus on direct firm support. The findings reveal gaps in innovation policy, particularly in production support and technology adoption across sectors, indicating a need for more comprehensive strategies to achieve sustainability objectives. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Governments should align innovation strategies with concrete implementation plans, emphasizing support for production facilities and technology adoption across all sectors. Additionally, fostering public-private partnerships and enhancing collaboration can ensure effective scaling of sustainable innovations, ultimately contributing to long-term economic and environmental goals. FOCUS OF STUDY This article examines Climate Policy Integration (CPI) in Ethiopia, focusing on the progress and barriers since the adoption of the Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) policy in 2011. Through qualitative case analysis, including interviews and document reviews, the study explores how climate goals are integrated into various policy sectors and the challenges posed by silo institutional cultures. It identifies the importance of cross-sectoral governance structures and the influence of political leadership in framing climate policy. While there has been progress in policy integration, issues such as unstable governance, inadequate climate finance, and competing economic priorities hinder effective implementation. The study emphasizes the need for coordinated information sharing and stable institutional frameworks to enhance CPI. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Ethiopia should restore the environmental ministry to ministerial status to strengthen climate policy coordination. Additionally, establishing a robust information-sharing framework among policy actors can enhance collaboration, reduce inconsistencies, and promote effective implementation of climate goals across sectors. Döme, Viktória, Weronika Cycak, and Kira JM Matus. “Variations in innovation strategies for sustainable development: Sustainable innovation policy instrument mixes of ten small OECD countries across five sectors.” Research Policy 54.6 (2025): 105234. Bimir, Mathias Nigatu, and Kira JM Matus. “From silos to joined-up government? Examining national climate policy integration in Ethiopia.” Climate Policy (2025): 1-13. 20 Scholarly Showcase
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS OF STUDY The paper explores the potential for integrating rooftop photovoltaics (PVs) with electric vehicles (EVs) in Kyoto, Japan, to facilitate a carbonneutral transition. It synthesizes technical, economic, and qualitative analyses to assess the “SolarEV City Concept,” which aims to use EVs as batteries to enhance energy storage and support urban decarbonization. The study highlights the importance of stakeholder collaboration and governance in overcoming barriers to implementing this niche technology. It identifies challenges such as land constraints, population decline, and the need for supportive policy frameworks while emphasizing the role of local initiatives, like the Kyoto Miraimon Project, in driving these transitions. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To facilitate the “PV + EV” integration, policymakers should promote collaborative governance frameworks that engage multiple stakeholders, streamline regulatory processes, and incentivize investments in renewable energy technologies, ensuring equitable access and community involvement in the transition to carbon neutrality. FOCUS OF STUDY The paper examines the role of urban innovation in achieving global climate and sustainability goals. It highlights the need for cities to lead in innovation to address local challenges while contributing to broader sustainability objectives. The authors define urban innovation as a collaborative process involving diverse stakeholders in cities. They emphasize the importance of a systems approach to governance, scaling successful initiatives, and building capacity for innovation. The paper also addresses the disparities in urban innovation practices between the Global North and South, advocating for inclusive and equitable strategies that consider local contexts and knowledge systems. It outlines a research agenda focused on understanding urban innovation processes and their effectiveness in driving transformative change. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To enhance urban innovation, policies should promote inclusive governance, support scaling of successful initiatives, and foster capacity building through collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring that local needs and knowledge systems are prioritized. Kobashi, Takuro, Eric Zusman, Makoto Taniguchi, Masaru Yarime. “Facilitating a carbon neutral transition in Kyoto: Initiatives on rooftop photovoltaics integrated with electric vehicles.” Technology in Society 80 (2025): 102774. Evans, James P., Davide Cassanmagnago, Tathagata Chatterji, Andrew Irvin, Banjamin Jance IV, Cathy Oke, Massamba Thioye, Gregory Patrick Trencher, Elvira Uyarra, Masaru Yarime. “Grand challenges in sustainable cities: urban innovation for global climate and sustainability goals— from policy agenda to research needs.” Frontiers in Sustainable Cities 7 (2025): 1568701. 21 Scholarly Showcase
FOCUS OF STUDY This article examines the demographic challenges and opportunities arising from the changing population dynamics in the context of the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). It highlights significant issues such as rapid growth in subSaharan Africa, aging populations in other regions, and the need for policies prioritizing human rights and sustainable development. The authors argue that addressing root causes, such as gender inequality, education access, and reproductive rights, is crucial for managing demographic transitions. They emphasize that effective policies should be inclusive and tailored to the unique contexts of each region, fostering resilience and well-being. The study re-evaluates the principles of the ICPD, advocating for a shift from numerical population targets to a focus on individual empowerment and sustainable development. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Governments should implement inclusive, rightsbased policies that promote gender equality, improve access to education and healthcare, and support reproductive rights. Tailoring demographic policies to local contexts is essential for fostering resilience and achieving sustainable development goals. FOCUS OF STUDY This study analyzes the transformation of China’s carbon emission patterns from 1995 to 2020, focusing on the spatial restructuring of population distribution, economic activity, and energy systems. Using an extended KAYA model, the research quantifies the synergistic effects of these shifts on carbon emissions. Key findings indicate that population migration to the south increased emissions by 336.02 Mt, while the southwest shift of economic activities led to a slight rise of 11.46 Mt. Conversely, the westward relocation of energy production resulted in a reduction of 32.23 Mt. The study emphasizes that successful carbon reduction strategies in China must consider the interconnections between demographic shifts, industrial relocation, and energy system changes. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To enhance China’s dual-carbon strategy, policymakers should implement regionally differentiated climate governance that harmonizes population mobility, industrial shifts, and energy layouts within a cohesive framework, ensuring effective carbon management and emissions reduction. Gietel Basten Stuart, and Rachel Snow. “Capitalizing on Population Dynamics 30 Years on from the International Conference on Population and Development.” Studies in Family Planning (2025). Wen, Xianglan, Huimin Li, Xiaofan Zhao & Xiu Yang. “Mapping socioeconomic spatiotemporal transition and its contribution to carbon emissions in China.” Climate and Development (2025): 1-14. 22 Scholarly Showcase
Chow Jeffrey, Tianle Liu, Coco Dijia Du, Rui Hu, Xun Wu. “From research to policy recommendations: A scientometric case study of air quality management in the Greater Bay Area, China.” Environmental Science & Policy 165 (2025): 104025. Cologna, Viktoria; Meiler, Simona; Kropf, Chahan M.; ... & Tyrala, Michael (as member of the TISP Consortium). (2025). “Extreme weather event attribution predicts climate policy support across the world”. Nature Climate Change 15: 725-735. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS OF STUDY This study investigates the dynamics of air quality research in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) of China, focusing on how institutional factors influence scientific contributions to environmental policy. Utilizing a scientometric meta-analysis of 687 scientific publications, the research examines the role of various funding sources and author affiliations in shaping policy recommendations. Key findings indicate that English-language articles from Hong Kong are more innovative in their policy proposals than Chinese articles, which tend to entail greater mainland government involvement and caution in recommendations. The study highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between scientific research and policy, particularly in a region characterized by distinct governance structures under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To enhance the scientific robustness of air quality management, policymakers should foster greater collaboration between scientists and government agencies while ensuring that independent experts are included in the research process. Encouraging transparency and grassroots initiative in scientific inquiry and policy advocacy will lead to more innovative environmental policies. FOCUS OF STUDY This article examines how subjective attribution of extreme weather events to climate change influences public support for climate policies worldwide. Using data from over 71,000 individuals across 68 countries, the authors combine largescale climate risk modeling with global survey results. The study finds that while objective exposure to extreme weather rarely predicts policy support, subjective attribution—people believing that climate change intensified recent events—is a robust and consistent predictor of support for five key climate mitigation policies (e.g., carbon taxes, sustainable energy, forest protection). These effects vary across event types and regions, underscoring the psychological and perceptual dimensions of environmental policy engagement. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policymakers and climate communicators should prioritize increasing public understanding of the link between climate change and extreme weather events. Communication strategies should aim to enhance subjective attribution, especially in areas where awareness is low. This may involve Integrating climate attribution science into public messaging and educational campaigns, promoting transparent and localized communication about weather– climate links, and collaborating with media outlets to frame extreme weather as “teachable moments” that reinforce the reality and urgency of climate change. Such efforts can strengthen public support for ambitious climate policies, especially in the Global South where exposure is high, but attribution remains underexplored. 23 Scholarly Showcase
Delina, L., Fuerzas, I., Dulay, M. J., Ludovice, N.P., Tam, K. K., & Salamanca, A. “Affective relationships as nonmaterial capital assets in resilience building in the rice-terraced cultural landscapes of the Philippine Cordillera.” Applied Geography 175: 103631. Ludovice, Nicolo Paolo P. “Dairying Dependence: Industrialization and Ecological Change During the Postwar Philippines.” Halo-Halo Ecologies: The Emergent Environments Behind Filipino Food. University of Hawai’i Press. 73-88. FOCUS OF STUDY Natural hazards and socioeconomic risks, including pandemics, necessitate robust resilience-building efforts. While physical infrastructure and financial resources are critical, the importance of intangible assets, particularly affective capacity, is often overlooked. This paper highlights affective capacity as an essential intangible asset for fostering resilience among Indigenous rice farmers in Mayoyao and Hungduan, UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the northern Philippines. The research identifies various hazards impacting the geological and socioeconomic conditions of these farmers, generating cascading risks that require proactive resilience measures. Natural hazards like changing weather patterns and demographic challenges, such as an ageing population and youth outmigration, significantly affect these communities. The study emphasises the role of affective relationships in underpinning both inherent and acquired resilience. Indigenous rice farmers leverage their affective capacities through a well-established network of social capital derived from extended family ties and local community connections. This capacity is strengthened by semiformal organisations, such as farmer groups and credit unions, which provide essential knowledge and access to financial resources. Additionally, farmers engage their affective capacities through rituals and ceremonies, reflecting the importance of emotional bonds with the spiritual world in resilience-building. State institutions must actively support these relationships to enhance adaptive capacities. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Policy must recognize that resilience and innovation are not merely technical achievements but are deeply rooted in the shared experiences and affective ties of communities. By valuing local knowledge, nurturing communal bonds, and integrating diverse perspectives, governance can foster forms of preparedness and sustainability that are both adaptive and inclusive. In this way, policy becomes not just a tool of administration, but a means of imagining and sustaining new solidarities across time and place. FOCUS OF STUDY This book chapter examines the rise of canned evaporated milk and its subsequent impact to the ecologies during the postwar Philippines. Initially used as an infant food during the American colonial administration, the evaporated milk was also popular amongst children and adults. Against the backdrop of a newly-independent country in 1946, the development of a stronger local dairy industry was seen as an exercise of economic independence. By using a multiscalar analysis, this paper argues how the expansion of the evaporated milk production intensified ecological change on the national, domestic, environmental, and nutritional levels. It traces the development of the local dairy industry with the establishment of the first milk processing plants. The promotion of the evaporated filled milk, which included the use of coconut oil as substitute to butterfat cream, permitted more households to afford milk. Ecological consequences of dairy intensification include the introduction of animal breeds and plant species, new animal and plant diseases, expansion of plantations to inland forests, use of synthetic chemicals as pesticides, and the nutritional imbalance in infants. In doing so, the paper also considers issues surrounding the global dairy food regime and their impact on environmental, animal, and human health. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To build a more resilient and sustainable food system, policymakers should encourage local innovation in dairy and food production while remaining attentive to the ecological costs of industrial practices. Investing in technologies and policies that support local producers, protect environmental resources, and reduce reliance on imports can help cities balance food security with ecological responsibility. Societies can make more informed choices about what they consume and how it is produced by recognising the interconnectedness of economic, environmental, and public health concerns. 24 Scholarly Showcase
Naubahar Sharif, Wenjin Chen, Mengyuan Niu, Zhiming Cheng. “As I know, there is nothing there for our people”: unmasking mental health literacy and help-seeking attitudes among ethnic minorities in Hong Kong. Journal of Asian Public Policy, 1–16 (2025). SOCIAL AND URBAN POLICY FOCUS OF STUDY The article investigates mental health literacy (MHL) and help-seeking attitudes among South Asian ethnic minorities in Hong Kong, particularly elderly individuals. It highlights their limited understanding of mental health issues, shaped by cultural beliefs and systemic barriers. Through qualitative interviews with 28 South Asian elders and caregivers, the study reveals misconceptions, stigma, and familial reliance in recognizing and addressing mental health problems. It emphasizes the complex interplay between ethnic factors and health system interactions, illustrating significant challenges ethnic minorities face in accessing mental health services. POLICY RECOMMENDATION Enhance mental health education programs tailored for ethnic minorities, utilizing digital platforms and community partnerships to reduce stigma and improve service accessibility. Focus on culturally sensitive resources and training for healthcare providers to better support diverse populations. FOCUS OF STUDY This study investigates the extent to which surveys are utilized as evidence in policymaking in Hong Kong. By analyzing Legislative Council documents related to 569 bills enacted from 2000 to 2022, the research finds that approximately 25% of these bills employed surveys as evidence, with significant variation across 18 policy areas. Health services emerged as the sector with the highest use of surveys. The study reveals that surveys are primarily employed to enhance understanding of policy issues, yet critical aspects such as data collection methods, sample sizes, and response rates are often overlooked in legislative discussions. These findings underscore the limited integration of survey evidence into policymaking processes in Hong Kong, reflecting challenges inherent in its unicameral legislative system and colonial legacy. POLICY RECOMMENDATION To enhance the use of surveys in policymaking, legislative bodies should establish guidelines that emphasize the importance of methodological transparency, including data collection methods and representativeness, to strengthen the role of survey evidence in policy formulation. Cruz, Christian Joy Pattawi, Kira Matus, and Stuart Gietel-Basten. “The extent of use of surveys in policymaking: the case of Hong Kong.” Evidence & Policy 20.3 (2024): 261-282. 25 Scholarly Showcase
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